Anthony Bourdain’s 5-Ingredient Sandwich That Never Fails

A Classic From Anthony Bourdain’s “Appetites”

In his 2016 cookbook Appetites, Anthony Bourdain revealed one of his go-to comfort foods: a simple sandwich with just five ingredients. Despite its simplicity, Bourdain described it as one that “never fails,” emphasizing balance, texture, and honest flavor over complexity.

The Five Essential Ingredients

The sandwich consists of:

Bourdain insisted that the bread be fresh, with a crisp exterior and soft center, as the foundation of the sandwich. The butter provides richness, while the sardines contribute bold umami flavor, and the shallots and lemon add sharpness and freshness.

Bourdain’s Philosophy on Simple Food

Bourdain’s preference for this sandwich reflected his broader culinary philosophy: great food doesn’t have to be complicated. He often celebrated straightforward combinations that honor good ingredients. In Appetites, he wrote that this kind of honest cooking “lets what’s best about each ingredient speak for itself.”

“Simplicity isn’t laziness,” Bourdain once said. “It’s respect for what’s real.”

A Bite of Culinary Authenticity

The sandwich captures Bourdain’s belief that food should be both comforting and real—something anyone can make, yet deeply satisfying when done thoughtfully. It’s an everyday dish elevated by quality and care, not by extravagance.

Author’s summary: A minimalist sardine sandwich from Anthony Bourdain’s Appetites embodies his love for simple, honest cooking that values quality ingredients over complexity.

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Food & Wine Food & Wine — 2025-11-28

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